"You are the sum total of everything you've ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot - it's all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive.

"The above quote derives from the wisdom of the late Dr. Maya Angelou. Many things we experience undoubtedly makes us. Who we are today is due to what our experiences have entailed. This life is a journey full of experiences. How we entertain and react to all that surrounds us determines how the journey's experiences effect us.

We've too often heard the phrase pertaining to our eating habits which suggests "you are what you eat", however, not many will go on to inform you that we are what we consume. There are many ways to consume that many of us never give consideration to. Would you believe that you are what you eat, speak, think, watch, entertain, and believe? Believe it, it is truth.

Consumption is vast. The phrase "you are what you eat" suggests that what we put into our body, will serve as nourishment or harm to the body's system, and therefore, it is ideal to be mindful of what we eat. While we want our food to nourish our body, we should think of every other form of consumption in the exact same light. There are endless factors contribute to a healthy mind, body, spirit, and emotions.

Things to Consider

What are we watching in media? I often cringe at the sight of those who consistently give their attention to media that focuses on sadness, murderous content, fights, hateful suggestions, and poverty. This is an example of feeding the mind. Even reading a book is a powerful tool to feed the mind and implant knowledge and information into your psyche. What books are being read? Suspense and drama, or wisdom and education? What are we saying to ourselves and to others? When looking in the mirror, are you (in your mind) saying that you are ugly and unattractive, or beautiful and highly desired? Are you speaking negatively about someone's looks, actions, nature, or character? Well, newsflash, you were the first one to hear those words. What do you believe about the world around you? Do you believe that your past, background, and personality will get you nowhere? If so, you will soon give in to those beliefs and act as if they were indeed true. Or, do you believe that despite the odds, obstacles, and outside opinions, you will come out on top in everything you pursue? Well, hopefully, you believe the latter.

My Challenge to You

Be a mindful consumer. The next time you choose to read, write, speak, think, eat, listen, or even follow someone on social media, let your move be one that will eventually nourish your mind, body, spirit, soul, and emotions.

Speaking of social media, follow me on Twitter or Instagram (@saudiamoore).